What Aaron Rodgers is telling Steelers teammates about 'revenge' storyline for Jets game

A season-opening showdown with the Jets could be a litmus test for Aaron Rodgers and a small betting edge for Pittsburgh: Steelers listed as 2.5-point favorites, so punters may lean Pittsburgh for a close win—consider Rodgers’ motivation and offensive weapons when sizing bets, but expect a tight spread given the emotional storyline.

Aaron Rodgers Faces Former Team as Steelers Open at Jets

Broderick Jones insisted Aaron Rodgers won’t be hunting revenge when Pittsburgh opens the season at the New York Jets this Sunday, signaling a calm, businesslike vibe from the new Steelers quarterback ahead of a charged matchup.

Rodgers’ Mindset: “Just Another Game”

Pat Freiermuth reinforced that narrative, saying Rodgers portrays the contest as “just another game,” an approach teammates welcome as they try to keep focus on execution rather than emotion. Rodgers himself has downplayed the storyline, calling the opener “one game out of 17.”

Locker-Room Tension and Recent History

The backdrop is unavoidable: Rodgers’ final months with the Jets were turbulent, the team finished 5-12 and there were reported tensions during his tenure. Rodgers missed most of 2023 after suffering a torn Achilles early in the season and later signed with Pittsburgh on a team-friendly deal, aiming to restart his career.

Teammates Rally Behind Rodgers

Receiver DK Metcalf said Rodgers’ motivation is rooted in love of the game and a desire to win, not vendettas. Teammates see his focus as beneficial for a Steelers offense that wants steady leadership to open the season.

Betting Outlook and What Punters Should Consider

As of Thursday, Pittsburgh was listed as a 2.5-point favorite. That modest spread suggests oddsmakers expect a close game—bettors might favor the Steelers for a narrow cover given Rodgers’ new start and offensive weapons, but the emotional narrative and Jets’ motivation at home make this one to size cautiously. Expect a tight contest and consider live-game action or smaller stakes if you’re wary of early-season variables.

Why This Game Matters

A win won’t define the season, but a strong outing could build momentum and confidence for Rodgers and the Steelers. For the Jets, the game is an early test of the roster’s response to last year’s difficulties and the new leadership in place.

Pittsburgh opens the season with a matchup at the Jets, Rodgers' former team, this coming Sunday.

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